February 5, 2008 Mitt Romney casts his vote in Massachusetts Play video

(NECN) - Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney was back in Massachusetts Tuesday to cast his vote in Belmont -- before getting back out on the road to rally supporters.

Romney is looking to the loyalty of Massachusetts Republicans to carry him in his home state over surging Republican rival John McCain.

McCain is hoping for an upset win on Romney's home turf.

Romney backers say the former governor is still a draw for the independents.

Romney said he and his wife, Ann, had talked Sunday night about the prospect of walking into the voting booth and seeing his name listed as a candidate for president.

"It's something I would have never imagined," said the 60-year-old, whose late father, former Michigan Gov. George Romney, sought the presidency in 1968.

The Bay State is one of more than 20 states electing delegates on Super Tuesday.

NECN political reporter Alison King has more.